Liputan6.com, Jakarta - Minister of State-Owned Enterprises Erick Thohir responded to the statement from the Chairman of the National Mandate Party (PAN), Zulkifli Hasan, who mentioned his name as the most probable candidate for the vice-presidential position alongside Prabowo Subianto in the 2024 elections.
However, he stated that he let Prabowo's coalition to decide.
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"If it's about the matter of candidacy, of course, there is a coalition discussing it. They are the ones entitled to speak," Erick stated to journalists at the Presidential Palace Complex in Jakarta on Wednesday (20/9/2023).
"I simply leave it to the coalition," Erick said.
He admitted to having a good relationship with the Chairman of the National Mandate Party (PAN), Zulkifli Hasan. Erick said their relationship is what prompted Zulhas to support his name as Prabowo Subianto's vice-presidential candidate.
"I can confirm that my relationship with Mr. Zulhas has been longstanding and quite positive, thatour families are also intimate friends," he explained.
Erick clarified that he has not specifically engaged in discussions with the concerned parties regarding the 2024 Presidential Election. He recognizes that achieving consensus within the coalition is essential for selecting both a presidential and a vice-presidential candidate.
"I haven't had any communication with the relevant parties," admitted Erick Thohir.
Zulkifli Hasan Also Welcomed the Democratic Party to Prabowo's Coalition
Previously, the Chairman of the National Mandate Party (PAN), Zulkifli Hasan, also welcomed the Democratic Party to Prabowo's coalition. The dems are left with resentment after presidential candidate Anies Baswedan did not choose Agus Harimukti Yudhoyono (AHY) as VP candidate.
Zulhas expressed his delight that the Democratic Party could join the coalition in support of Prabowo Subianto.
"Ahlan Wa Sahlan (welcome)" said Zulhas.
Currently, PAN continues to advocate for the inclusion of Erick Thohir and Muhadjir Effendy as potential vice-presidential candidates for Prabowo. All of them, Zulhas, Erick, Muhadjir, and Prabowo, are currently ministers in Jokowi's cabinet.
"The vice-presidential candidates are clear, Mr. Erick Thohir and Muhadjir," emphasized Zulhas, who is also the Minister of Trade.
Lizsa Egeham contributed to this report.
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